Barzakh

I’ve often wondered why Pakistan hasn’t been able to produce OTT content that genuinely reflects our culture and Islamic values. In recent years, an increasing number of people in Pakistan have expressed views that are inconsistent with and contrary to Islamic principles. A prime example is the promotion of the LGBTQ agenda. Instead of producing dramas that explore the true essence of freedom or show our Islamic values, our drama industry has largely remained inactive and even collaborated with neighboring countries to create content that contradicts our Islamic values.

When we look across the border, the content being created attracts a massive audience across Asia by blending local culture with mainstream appeal and whatever they want to show in the name of entertainment, as they did with the series “Barzakh”

“Barzakh” Starring Fawad and Sanam

Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed’s highly anticipated web series for Zee Zindagi Barzakh is a collaborative effort of visionary talents in the industry. It is a six-episode series that British-Pakistani Asim Abbasi wrote and directed, renowned for his work on Cake and Churails and Produced by Shailja Kejriwal for Zindagi, it specializes in content from the Indian subcontinent for the OTT platform Zee5 Global.  Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed are stars in the series. this series also features an ensemble cast including Salman Shahid, M Fawad Khan, Eman Suleman, Khushhal Khan, Faiza Gillani, and Anika Zulfikar.

“Barzakh” follows the poignant journey of a 76-year-old reclusive man who invites his estranged children and grandchildren to his remote valley resort to celebrate an extraordinary and unconventional event—his wedding with the ghost of his first true love.

The series intertwines magical realism with supernatural fantasy in a family reunion setting, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Hunza Valley. The narrative transforms the scenic Hunza Valley into a mysterious, otherworldly liminal space between life and the afterlife, capturing the essence of “Barzakh.”

Fawad and Sanam On-Screen Reunion

The audience was thrilled to learn that Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed are reuniting for a new drama after years. Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed are top-billed stars in Pakistan. This supernatural show marks the on-screen reunion of the renowned Pakistani actors, who previously worked together in the critically acclaimed “Zindagi Gulzar Hai.” The pair is making a comeback after 12 years.

Sanam on Reuniting with Fawad Khan

“Coming back with Fawad Khan is a treat because he’s a wonderful actor; it’s always fun to exchange that energy with him,” Sanam stated. She added, “As far as ‘Barzakh’ is concerned, OTT platforms have become comfort zones for many actors like me.”

“Barzakh”: Beyond a Family Drama

Sanam Saeed explains that “Barzakh” is not a typical family drama. She describes it as an experimental project, noting that while it is a family drama, but done with a different take. It’s not one dimensional. The track goes here and there, but eventually it all comes together. It presents a unique perspective.

Sanam shares that she sought a project that would challenge her, defy norms, and push boundaries. “Barzakh is definitely something none of us have done before. It was a challenge and intriguing for us, and we were all nervous about how it would be received. However, because the themes of family, love, loss, and death are so universal, I believe the connection will be made,” she says.

Concept of Barzakh in Islam

The concept of Barzakh in Islam refers to the state or period between a person’s death and the Day of Judgment, where the soul is separated from the body and contemplates its deeds. This idea is crucial in Islamic teachings and signifies the separation between life and the afterlife.

In the Quran, Barzakh is mentioned in several contexts. It is understood as a barrier or partition, which can be between two seas or, metaphorically, between life and death. The concept emphasizes the separation between two different states, and in the context of the afterlife, it is the stage where souls reside until the Day of Resurrection.

The show, starring Pakistani celebrities Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed, has sparked controversy, especially after the release of its third episode and faced criticism.

Hidden LGBTQ Agenda in “Barzakh”

Many viewers feel uncomfortable watching “Barzakh” with their families, citing a conflict with their religious and cultural beliefs. The drama is seen by some as promoting a Western agenda, which they believe disrespects both Islamic and national values.

This hidden LGBTQ agenda in the name of drama is being normalized with plays like Barzakh. LGBTQ agenda (intended to emphasize a diversity of sexuality and gender identity-based cultures) promote under the guise of freedom and rights through the power of media, as media plays a huge role in shaping public opinions and cultural norms. This trend not only challenges traditional values but also shifts the focus away from meaningful discussions to Western values. Furthermore, it often leads to the normalization of concepts that are contrary to our cultural and religious beliefs, thereby influencing the younger generation in particular.

There is also an attempt to inject messages of Obscenity, Nudity and Pedophilia into content that is promoted under the mask of aesthetics, cinema, and entertainment, which some believe contradicts Islamic teachings.

An example of this is a child telling his father a so-called joke, asking him, “Who comes after death?” The answer was “necrophiliac.” This is neither funny nor appropriate for a child to say. A necrophiliac is a person who engages in sexual activity with a dead body. Why and how would a child know this word and use it as a joke? Additionally, the scene where a child is watching a man take a shower. These are just some of the inappropriate scenes in the drama “Barzakh”.

This prompts the question: Despite the rich tapestry of stories and traditions we possess, why is it so difficult for Pakistan to create content that resonates with a global audience and achieves commercial success by spreading ethical content Instead of using others investment and create themes that clash with Islamic values, particularly regarding modesty, morality, and the portrayal of relationships.

The quality of work was 80 percent Pakistani I wonder when we’ll make more content for the world, not just our audience. why do we make content for the average audience.

Addressing the Controversy Surrounding “Barzakh”

“Barzakh” touches on an Islamic concept, but it has faced criticism for potentially promoting content that some perceive as inconsistent with Islamic values, such as homosexuality and inappropriate themes. Historically, the people of Lot(Qoom e Loot), committed similar acts and faced the wrath of Allah. Do you want to end up like them? This world is temporary, and in the eternal life, do you want to burn in the fires of hell? Do you want to provoke Allah’s anger? Fear Allah. The individuals who participated in this heinous act should be shunned and boycotted.

Indeed, those who love to see indecency spread among the believers will suffer a painful punishment in this life and the Hereafter. Quran (24:19)

The ongoing debate reflects the tension between creative freedom and religious sensitivities. As viewers express concerns about the show’s alignment with Islamic principles, particularly regarding modesty and moral conduct, calls to boycott and ban the drama highlight efforts to uphold traditional values and prevent the spread of content viewed as harmful or disrespectful.

This controversy underscores the need for dialogue and understanding in balancing media, religion, and cultural values.

Barzakh Faces Criticism Amid Homosexuality:

Different people have varied reactions based on their interpretations and personal beliefs. While some advocate for creative freedom, others, prioritize the preservation of religious and cultural values.

The growing call to boycott and ban “Barzakh” with hashtags like ‘No Obscenity’ and ‘No Barzakh’ trending on social media to uphold Islamic principles and protect cultural values. Showbiz personalities joined the public in condemning the drama and achieving success/goal.

Profound, Dark Drama Faces Ban

In response to the recent public outcry in Pakistan, Zindagi Official has decided to withdraw the popular series Barzakh from YouTube in Pakistan. This decision comes after careful consideration of the current public sentiment in the country.